valörer

Valör or valörer is a term used in Swedish finance to denote the nominal or face value of a financial instrument. The concept is applied to banknotes, coins, bonds, checks, gift cards, and stamps, referring to the amount that is legally recognized for payment or settlement. The valör is the number printed or stated on the instrument and represents the amount that can be paid out or redeemed. It is distinct from the instrument’s market price or its intrinsic metal value.

In practice, valör determines what is legally accepted in transactions and how much must be paid or received upon redemption. The valör also defines denominations: sets of banknotes, coins, or stamps of different values designed to facilitate handling and circulation. In accounting and finance, valör is used to denote the nominal value of securities, such as the principal amount of a bond or the stated value of an issued instrument.

Historically and in economic policy, valörer can be altered through currency reform, redenomination, or demonetization, though such changes are relatively rare in stable economies. The concept contrasts with market value, which reflects what buyers are willing to pay, and with intrinsic value, which relates to material content or utility.

Etymology: valör derives from the French valeur meaning value, and in Swedish usage it has come to denote the nominal value of monetary and financial instruments.